Four Mandurah-based doctors have been recognised for their long-time commitment to the region at this year's WA Country Doctors' Awards, hosted by Rural Health West and WA Country Health Service.
The awards, held on March 23, celebrated doctors who have spent 20, 30 and 40 years working in rural communities in Western Australia.
Local health professionals Dr Hugh Connolly and Dr Robert Watt were recognised for their 40 years of dedicated service each to rural and regional communities.
Although semi-retired, Dr Watt continues to work as a GP at Falcon Grove Medical Centre.
He spent some time in Geraldton, Fremantle and Canada before relocating to the Peel region.
Dr Connolly from Peel Connolly Medical Centre has practised in the Peel region since relocating to WA from Ireland in 1979.
Dr Wayne Bradshaw from Mandurah Doctors was also recognised with a 30 year service award and Modern Medical Clinics' Dr Stephen Bingham was awarded for 20 years of rural medicine.
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Rural Health West chief executive officer Tim Shackleton said all doctors had shown extraordinary commitment to regional communities.
"Continuity of care is incredibly important - it takes time to build trust and rapport between doctors and patients," Mr Shackleton said.
"Their contribution to the health and well-being of the Peel community, and of course to the many babies they have delivered over many years, cannot be overstated."
WA Country Health Service chief executive officer Jeff Moffet said it was important to acknowledge all doctors working to ensure rural communities continue to have access to high-quality medical care.
"I am pleased to acknowledge the ongoing dedication and commitment of these doctors to rural communities," he said.
For more information about the awards, visit the Rural Health West website.
